Agilent Technologies - High-Performance Signal Analyzer for Advanced RF and Microwave Applications

The Agilent PXA delivers exceptional performance that reduces measurement uncertainty and reveals new levels of signal detail, starting with up to 75 dB spurious-free dynamic range at 140-MHz analysis bandwidth. Industry-leading specifications include -128 dBc/Hz phase noise at 10 kHz offset (1 GHz), 0.19 dB absolute amplitude accuracy, and sensitivity of -172 dBm displayed average noise level (DANL) at 2 GHz (with preamplifier and Noise Floor Extension technology).

The flexibility of the PXA begins with built-in one-button measurements and optional advanced measurement applications. Based on proven algorithms, the library of X-Series measurement applications ensures consistent results when transitioning from legacy or current-generation analyzers. The applications are also transportable across many of the Agilent X-Series, which includes the PXA, MXA, EXA and CXA signal analyzers. For greater flexibility, the Agilent 89600 vector signal analysis (VSA) software can run inside the instrument, providing advanced analysis of more than 70 demodulation formats.

In real-world signal analysis, the ability to keep test assets up to date equals success, said Guy Séné, vice president and general manager, Agilent's Microwave & Communications Division. The PXA provides that ability today and tomorrow with architecture that supports new measurement applications, future hardware add-ons, wider analysis bandwidths, and possible upgrades to the instrument CPU, memory, disk drives and I/O ports.

For those looking to easily refresh or replace existing test systems, the PXA is a form, fit and function replacement for a variety of widely used spectrum analyzers: HP 8566 and 8568; HP/Agilent 856x; and Agilent PSA (up to 26.5 GHz). Key features include code compatibility; emulation of remote programming language; default settings, timings and couplings; arbitrary and second IF output; fast-risetime logarithmic video output; and Y-axis output.

MATLAB(r) data analysis software is available as an Agilent option -- directly from Agilent -- on all X-Series signal analyzers. These packages enable users to make application-specific measurements and test modulation schemes, and develop their own customized applications using live signal analyzer data. The Agilent CXA and PXA are the first signal analyzers to offer MATLAB software at introduction.

The PXA is the flagship of the Agilent X-Series signal analyzers. The X-Series is an evolutionary approach to signal analysis that spans instruments, measurements and software. It provides the flexibility to address business and technical requirements across multiple products and programs -- now and in the future. The X-Series also provides a consistent framework for signal analysis, enabling teams and their projects to move at a faster pace.